Whether for swimming laps, exercise or rehabilitation, surfing or splashing around with the kids, public pools are a vital part of Australia’s social fabric. Every year, 9 out of 10 Australians visit a publicly accessible aquatic centre, and they are where most of us learn to swim. Then there are the other features that public swimming pools offer – river rides, spas, water slides, hydrotherapy and more. It’s no wonder that they are a place where many of us feel connected to community and find a sense of belonging.
Yet public pools are not all created equal. According to research by the University of Sydney, western suburbs in council areas such as Parramatta and Penrith have one pool per 134,000 residents, while inner-city Yarra and Mosman have one for every 14,000 people. Meanwhile, outer-metropolitan councils such as Melton in Victoria have just one aquatic centre per 178,960 residents.
In spite of this inequality, most Australians live within 20 minutes drive of a public pool, and nine out of 10 children learn to swim at public pools, including those in regional and rural areas. Yet this access is not evenly distributed and there are a number of issues that limit pool-goers’ experiences and enjoyment, including cost, safety concerns and availability.
The first step is constructing the frame of the pool, which can take a few weeks depending on the complexity of the design. Once this is complete, the concrete can be poured and curing takes another 2-4 weeks, while more intricate tasks such as tiling and coping will take longer. Depending on the size and complexity of the pool, it may take 3-4 months for all stages of construction to be completed.
Once built, the pool is ready for swimmers, but it’s not always a safe space, especially when the waves are large. There is a danger of drowning, and in the case of ocean pools, there is a risk of being carried off by the tide or rocks. The pools can also become dangerous places for young children due to the tidal flows and currents, and the possibility of jellyfish and sharks.
These challenges can be overcome by making sure that the pool is adequately staffed and supervised, and by ensuring that lifeguards are appropriately trained and equipped. It’s also important to remember that swimming isn’t just a recreational activity: it’s an essential skill that can save lives, and the more we promote its importance, the safer our waters will be.